THREE Gunnedah-based apprentices were awarded $5000 scholarships yesterday as part of a $2.4 million program to assist trainees in completing their qualifications.
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The Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarships were awarded by Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson and State Training Services regional manager Greg Poetschka, to Thomas Witts (GBP Cranes), Matthew Crookall (Allmac Electrics) and Brendan Howes (Mornington Butchery).
“It’s great to see a good cross-section of trades receive the scholarships,” Mr Anderson said.
“Apprentices play a vital role in growing the NSW economy.
“It’s important for our young people to ensure industry growth and diversity in our regions.
“That is why the NSW government recognises the need to provide additional financial support those apprentices facing difficulty and to help them gain their qualifications,” he said.
“Thanks for getting up and having a go.”
Eighteen recipients were awarded in the New England area, with the program aiming to support apprentices with a disability, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander background and women in non-traditional trades.
Funding for the scholarships will be provided by the NSW Skills Board through the Department of Education and Communities.
A sum of $5,000 a year up to a maximum of $15,000 over three years will be paid to each of the scholarship holders.
The statewide scholarship initiative is named in honour of the NSW Apprenticeship Ambassador and patron of the NSW Training Awards, Bert Evans, in recognition of his support for vocational education and training and for apprentices in NSW.
The scholarship program is supported by the Department of Education and Communities, TAFE and the recipients employers.